Top-seeded Mississippi State one step closer to Portland

Saturday

Mississippi State (31-2) didn't have much trouble against the Jaguars, jumping out to a 37-10 lead by the end of the first quarter. Howard and McCowan both finished with double-doubles - McCowan had 16 rebounds and Howard had 12.

Southern (20-13) briefly took a 3-2 lead early in the first quarter when Rishonti Cowart made a 3-pointer. That was the extent of the good news for the Jaguars, who gave up the next nine points and quickly fell behind.

No. 4 Texas A&M 84, No. 13 Wright State 61: Chennedy Carter scored 27 points in her return from injury and Texas A&M, which is in the tournament for the 14th consecutive season, advances to the second round for the fourth straight year.